Cycling is indeed a popular activity that Singaporeans enjoy together with their family and friends. There are many reasons why people choose to cycle; cycling for health purposes, to spend time with their family and friends, or to go for an adventure. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic where people are encouraged to stay at home to prevent the risk of contagion for the virus, cycling for leisure or health reasons had to be put to a halt temporarily.
As domestic travel is expected to recover first, we believe that cycling will begin to pick up once again for Singaporeans. This is because cycling is a convenient way to travel around Singapore and spend time with your family and friends, as well as a perfect activity for all of you who are fearless and love exploring new places in Singapore.
Singapore is a beautiful city that offers many interesting and scenic places that are perfect and exciting for cyclists to explore. Calling all the cycling enthusiasts, we have searched for some interesting places for you to explore on your bikes.
Here are the 10 best cycling trails in Singapore!
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1. Rower’s Bay Park
Image Credit: Rower's Bay Park by NParks on Facebook
Hop on your bicycle and challenge yourself through the new 60-kilometre Rower’s Bay. It is part of the first phase of the Round Island Route, a continuous 150-kilometre park connector that circles the island (and bound to be ready in 2035). Rower’s Bay connects Yishun to Punggol. During the day, you could enjoy nature by being at the lookout pavilion. For our late-night cyclists, you could be at the boardwalk where you could see the city’s night view (wow!). For those of you who love admiring the beautiful skies, this park provides one of the best spots to watch the sunrise or sunset in Singapore.
Along the way to Seletar Aerospace Park, there are also shelters with charging points and vending machines selling bike equipment which could be helpful if you face some bike issues given that it is a long trail.
We definitely recommend this cycling trail as it is perfect for you to spend time with your family or friends while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
2. Coast-to-Coast Trail
Image Credit: Coast-to-Coast Trail by NParks on Facebook
Take a break from work or usual mundane activities to have a nature trail over at Coast-to-Coast trail. The trail has loads of beautiful flora and fauna that will get you breathless and awed.
Stay connected as the trail is complemented by the C2C mobile application, which makes use of interactive augmented reality (AR) elements to provide users with a curated walking experience, as well as an online trail guide (hello technology!). Alternatively, you can view and download the Coast-to-Coast Trail guide that NParks has prepared, here.
Here is a chance for you to explore many areas in Singapore as Coast-to-Coast trail connects many different areas like Jurong Lake Gardens in the West to Coney Island in the Northeast. Get your gears ready as you would be on a 36km trail so prepare your towel, water bottles, and necessary gears as you are in for the cycling experience of your lifetime!
For more information on the trail, visit the NParks website here.
3. Civic District
Image Credit: Civic District on Urban Development Authority
If you're not really a nature lover, don't worry! You could always head over to the Civic District for a cycling expedition. You could bask in the modern Singapore with views of colonial-style buildings like the National Gallery, Victoria Concert Hall And Theatre, and Asian Civilisations Museum. Indulge in nostalgia as you cycle along these iconic buildings. You could bask in the hot sun and look at iconic buildings that make Singapore the bustling city she is well-known for.
The best part is that when you are on your break, you could snap some pictures with your family or friends at some of these iconic landmarks!
4. Kranji Marshes
Image Credit: Kranji Marshes on NParks
If you are someone who loves the peace and quiet, Kranji Marshes would be a beautiful serene place for you to cycle at. In the beautiful silence, you could hear birds chirping and the quiet rippling of water. We would also recommend you to cycle here with a special someone as the scenic views will help your love to bloom evermore. Perhaps a cycling date at Kranji Marshes?
On top of that, you could also drop by the Sungei Buloh Wetlands Reserve for an educational trip about the flora and fauna in Singapore (keep a lookout for the monitor lizard as it tends to be on the pavements). This is where nature comes alive!
5. Bukit Batok Nature Park
Image Credit: Bukit Batok Nature Park on NParks
Bukit Batok Nature Park was developed on an abandoned quarry in 1988. Stunning views await you at the quarry. For a bit of history, head over to the WWII memorial nearby where you can have a quiet time to reflect and learn more about Singapore's history and the significance of this location.
For those of you who are feeling adventurous, you could move through the Western Adventure Loop connecting eight parks in the West. The wild side of Singapore is said to be at the Western Adventure Loop. You could get your adrenaline rush when you get on the rugged terrain at Zhenghua Park and Dairy Farm.
Cycling with your friends and family over at this trail is recommended for you as you could learn more about Singapore's history as well as appreciate nature and the stunning views that come with it.
6. Jalan Mashhor
Image credit: Jalan Mashhor on The Long and Winding Road
Interesting places in Singapore are always hidden in areas where you least expect them. For the fearless, if you are looking to explore parts of Singapore that are hidden, this is the chance for you to cycle your way over at this trail.
We discovered a beautiful area near the Omar Salmah Mosque, a village-style-mosque. Along the long winding road, you would meet the quaint mosque followed by a horse stable which houses pretty horses. During dusk, you could take a breather and watch the sky turn a pretty shade of colour. Take a pause, unwind. Just reflect on all the good things in life. For the fearless, this is the time for you to fully appreciate the wonderful, serene places that are away from the bustling city life, that Singapore has got to offer.
On top of that, you could cycle along Thomson Road to head over to MacRitchie Reservoir and get on the MacRitchie Trail (beware of monkeys!).
7. Chestnut Nature Park
Image Credit: Chestnut Nature Park on NParks
If you're into challenging routes for your cycling adventures, then you should head over to Chestnut Nature Park. Chestnut Nature Park is located on the Eastern end of Chestnut Avenue. Feast your eyes on loads of greeneries while being on this trail.
There are two areas to Chestnut Nature Park – Chestnut Nature Park (South) and Chestnut Nature Park (North). Chestnut Nature Park (North) is about 64 hectares. Together with the Southern portion, Chestnut Nature Park now totals 81 hectares, which makes it Singapore’s largest nature park to date (get ready for the muscle aches!).
8. Ketam Mountain Bike Park
Image Credit: Ketam Mountain Bike Park on NParks
Travel nearby to Pulau Ubin where you would be away from loads of traffic. Upon alighting the boat, turn left, then navigate your way through the bike hire shops and restaurants in the main village and head over to Ketam Mountain Bike Park. This park offers a 10-kilometre mountain-bike trail and it is suitable for riders of all levels as the trail ranges from easy to hardest biking expertise.
For those of you who are currently planning on where to travel next with your friends after Covid-19, we recommend having this trail on your list. Let's see if you are up for this challenge with your friends!
9. Kent Ridge Park
Image Credit: Kent Ridge Park on NParks
Nature lovers would definitely love cycling along Kent Ridge Park as the park features natural vegetation and high biodiversity of wildlife. On top of that, there is a pond teeming with turtles and fishes! Exciting isn't it?
You could cycle along the Canopy Walk, which is an elevated boardwalk measuring 280-metres long linking HortPark to Kent Ridge Park. Immerse in the biodiversity of wildlife and nature which this trail features. A refreshing experience, we feel!
Additionally, for all of you who love learning more about the history of Singapore, Kent Ridge Park is a historical park; one of the final battles for Singapore was fought here during WWII. This is the chance to relive the history of Singapore and appreciate our rich history.
An all-in-one park suitable for families who appreciate nature and history, cycling at Kent Ridge Park is highly recommended!
10. Funan Mall
Image Credit: Funan Mall on The Straits Times
Have you ever heard of people cycling in a mall? Well, why not experience it yourself? Head over to the reopened Funan mall where you could ride your bike while you shop (how unique!). The revamped mall features a 200m indoor cycling path that runs through and around it. The indoor cycling path is an extension of the outdoor shared cycling and walking path along North Bridge Road.
If you need a break to perform Salah, you could easily go along the North Bridge Road to head over to Sultan Mosque or Malabar Mosque.
For more information on the usage of the cycling path, click here.
Also Read: Here Is What Travel Will Look Like After Covid-19
There you have it, 10 best cycling trails in Singapore for you to check out! As a beautiful city, Singapore offers many interesting spots with scenic views that are perfect and exciting for cyclists to explore. Be it cycling with your family or friends to spend time with them or cycling to unknown places to satisfy the fearless nature in you, we hope that this article will be a useful guide for you to plan your next cycling adventure after Covid-19!
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The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the world today. Among the things that were affected are places of worship that were temporarily shut down all over the world, to prevent the spread of the virus. This year's Eid-ul Fitr celebration is also different from previous years due to mosque closures, as Muslims are encouraged to do their Eid prayers at home instead.
As more countries are slowly lifting restrictions, some of the mosques all over the world have reopened. Despite the reopening of the mosques, strict measures have been put in place to reduce the risk of contagion of the virus. Some of these mosques have implemented social distancing measures when praying, as well as other rules in place to prevent the spread of the virus.
Here are several mosques that have reopened after the Covid-19 closure.
1. The Reopening of Al-Aqsa Mosque in the Old City of Jerusalem
Image Credit: Al-Aqsa Mosque on Facebook
After more than a 2-month closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Al-Aqsa Mosque has reopened its doors to worshippers last Sunday, 31st May. According to The Council of Islamic Waqf, this was due to the slowed local spread of the virus which allowed for entry restrictions to be lifted and the Al-Aqsa mosque to be reopened. However, precautionary measures have been put in place by the Jordan-appointed council. Worshippers have to wear face masks and bring their own prayer mats. This is part of the effort to prevent further spread of the virus at Islam’s third holiest site.
2. The Reopening of Mosques in Saudi Arabia
Image Credit: Ryan Pradipta Putra on Unsplash
Saudi Arabia has reopened its doors to worshippers but stricter measures have been imposed to reduce the contagion of the virus. Al Masjid An-Nabawi was one amongst 90,000 mosques that have reopened for prayers in Saudi Arabia.
Prior to the reopening of mosques, worshippers were informed of the new rules in place for public prayers via text messages by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. Worshippers had to comply with social distancing measures such as praying two metres (6.5ft) apart and avoiding greeting each other with hugs and handshakes. They also had to perform ablution at home since the washrooms are closed in the mosque. Mosques will also open for 15 minutes before the five daily prayers and will close 10 minutes after they conclude. Friday sermons and prayers will also last no longer than 15 minutes.
3. The Reopening of Mosques in Turkey
Image Credit: Osman Köycü on Unsplash
The mosques in Turkey reopened last Friday for mass prayers, as the country eased restrictions. There were hundreds of worshippers who performed mass prayers outside the historical Blue Mosque for the first time since its closure - all wearing protective masks. Since May, Turkey has been shifting towards a “new normal” by loosening lockdown measures in the country. Most public places have since reopened across the country.
4. The Reopening of Mosques in Singapore
Image Credit: Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) on Facebook
Most mosques in Singapore have reopened on Monday, 1 June 2020 but with precautionary measures in place. There are limited private prayer spaces, worshippers have to wear a mask and bring their own personal prayer items, as well as carry a scannable identification or a smartphone. There is also a priority given to those whose jobs require them to be on the move such as taxi drivers and delivery riders.
During the first phase of the post-circuit breaker period, daily communal prayers and congregational Friday prayers will not be conducted which is in line with the national guidelines for places of worship. According to MUIS, this will be organized in the later phases when the situation permits. The reopening of the mosque, with stricter precautionary measures in place, is in line with Phase One of Post-Circuit Breaker where Singapore slowly resumes activities.
5. The Reopening of Mosques in Nigeria
The government in Nigeria has since lifted restrictions placed on religious gatherings during the pandemic. Mosques, together with churches and hotels, are now free to open but with stricter measures implemented to curb the spread of the virus. Worshippers have to wear face masks, maintain social distancing as well as maintaining personal hygiene by thoroughly washing and sanitizing their hands before joining their congregation. Also, according to Sani Aliyu, chairman of the Task Force, places of worship like churches and mosques are only allowed to operate between 5am and 8pm daily, with Friday prayers in mosques not exceeding one hour.
Daily updates on the reopening of mosques all over the world will be provided so be sure to download the HalalTrip App to stay updated, here! Stay safe and stay healthy. ...

The COVID-19 situation has placed some business on a halt, some may have even closed their doors. We have seen how entertainment centers, tourist attractions, zoos, and even museums were affected by this outbreak.
There is no denying that technology has made life simpler, making us feel that the world is at our fingertips. As travel bans have been imposed all around the world, you may have heard about virtual traveling. Exploring the world at the comfort of your home might not give you the best experience but think about its convenience; you don't have to deal with the crowd! Even better, some of these tours are free! From the deepest part of the world to local zoos to historical and art museums; there's an abundance of virtual tours made available for you. Can't travel to visit these iconic museums? Don't worry, we've got you covered.
Here are 10 best virtual museum tours you need to check out in 2020!
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1. The British Museum, London
Image Credit: Ryan Stefan on Unsplash
The British Museum in London was opened in 1759 and was the first national public museum in the world. You can learn about human histories and culture dated way back to over two million years.There are several ways for you to enjoy these historic artifacts. Explore the virtual museum tours through Google Street View. You can visit up to 60 over galleries like the Egyptian sculpture gallery and The World of Alexander. You can also view an infographic timeline of each artifact through History Connected. You can easily read through the facts or even listen to the audio made available. It is very informative and must not be missed by all history buffs! For those of you who had always dreamed of visiting this museum, this is your chance. And the best part is, it's free!
Website
2. The Broad, Los Angeles
Image Credit: Tu Tram Pham on UnsplashThe Broad in Los Angeles features contemporary art from the 1950s to the present. With almost 2,000 pieces of artwork, you can find collections from influential contemporary artists like Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama.Get inspired by the effort made by The Broad to bring this wonderful experience to you at home. Watch one of The Broad's famous installations, Yayoi Kasuma's Infinity Mirrored Room, over some lights and sounds environment. If you want to find activities you can do with the kids, get inspired through the family workshops at home series. It contains step-by-step tutorials that you can enjoy with your family. If you can't get over the Infinity Mirrored Room, then you can learn how to create one from one of the videos.Website
3. National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Image Credit: Mitchell Luo on Unsplash
National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia, is one of the oldest museums to exist in the country. Founded in 1861, you can find artworks from both local and international artists, ranging from contemporary art, fashion, architecture, and dance.Fans of KAWS, you no longer have to feel disappointed about missing this exhibition. Now available via virtual tours, head down to the website to visit KAWS: Companionship in the Age of Loneliness exhibition. Other exhibitions you can visit virtually includes the 'Japanese Modernism' and 'Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines.' The latter exhibition is worth visiting as you can listen to the audio tour by the curator himself. Wonderful isn't it? Website
4. National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Seoul
Image Credit: National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
The National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has established four museums in different venues; Gwacheon, Deoksugung, Seoul, and Cheongju. It is one of the most famous museums in Korea that showcases Korea's art and culture. The four museums are unique; each showcasing different aspects of art and culture in Korea but are geared towards a common goal which is to provide a rewarding cultural experience to visitors.
You can find various artworks ranging from literature to calligraphy, architecture to design, and family-oriented space and children's museum.One of the ways you can enjoy a tour around the museum is through the official website. You can watch tour videos on Jonathan Borofsky's Singing Man or Kim Whanki's Two Moon. Meanwhile, on Google Art & Culture, you can view more collections from renowned artistes or even go on a virtual tour on all levels.Website
5. Musée d’Orsay, Paris
Image Credit: Armand Khoury on Unsplash
Musée d’Orsay in Paris, France, holds French artworks dated way back in 1848 to 1914. These artworks range from painting, sculpture, furniture, and photographs. Fans of impressionist will find solace in this museum, witnessing artworks from renowned painters like Monet and Van Gogh.As Musée d’Orsay used to be a railway station, you may catch a glimpse of its history through an online exhibition called From Station to the Renovated Musée d'Orsay. Apart from that, get inspired by the canvas painting and oil painting made available for you in Google Art & Culture. You can now enjoy the artworks from this exhibition in the comfort of your home!Website
6. China Paper Cutting Museum, Yangzhou
Image Credit: China Paper Cutting Museum on Discover China
The China Paper Cutting Museum in Yangzhou holds a diverse collection of paper-cutting arts from around the country. With almost 400 pieces of artwork, its genre ranged from landscapes, birds and flowers, and plants, and insects. Paper-cutting art has always been important to Chinese folk culture. These delicate and detailed arts may leave you in awe and keep you inspired in many ways.You can view the artwork virtually from local artistes via the online exhibitions made available. If you wanna try making some paper cutting art, how about watching the online exhibition called 'The Art of Cutting Paper by Zhang Muli?' All you need is just a pair of scissors and some paper. Time to get crafty! Website
7. Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, Kyoto
Image Credit: Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts
The Kyoto Museum of Traditional Crafts, also known as Fureaikan, features Kyoto's traditional crafts. With almost 500 collections ranging from Kimonos, lacquerwares, and textiles, there is always something to see and learn on Kyoto crafts.The traditional garment Kimono has always featured beautiful and intricate designs. Learn its history from the online exhibition, 'The Ancient History Making and Wearing a Kimono' and 'Historical Development of Kimono Pattern'. The beautiful textiles of a Kimono will leave you in awe, as you learn to appreciate them more given that the time and effort it takes to make the textiles can be excruciating. Website
8. Singapore Art Museum, Singapore
Image Credit: The Singapore Art Museum
The Singapore Art Museum is dedicated to contemporary art based in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Whether the museum is closed for major transformation or due to the COVID-19 situation, you can still visit the museum and view the exhibitions virtually.
Singapore Art Museum has been an organizer for the Singapore Biennale in four different years. If you missed it, you may get the chance to view the last years' collections in the online exhibition 'Singapore Biennale 2019: Every Step in the Right Direction.' You can also go on a virtual walk in the museum and explore all levels that are made available.Website
9. National Museum of Natural Science, Taichung
Image Credit: National Museum of Natural Science on Taichung Travel Net
If you want to skip the art and history, or if you are just into nature and science, then this museum is for you! The National Museum of Natural Science in Taichung, Taiwan, covers exhibitions like astronomy, space science, and ecology. With over 50 permanent exhibitions to look out for, there is always something for everyone to learn from, be it adults or children.As one of the most visited museums in Taiwan, there shouldn't be a reason to skip this museum especially when you can visit it virtually!. Run through the 100 specimens of different departments; geology, botany, zoology, and anthropology in this online exhibition. You will never leave this virtual tour without learning something new, we promise! Website
10. Fubon Art Foundation, Taipei
Image Credit: Fubon Art Foundation
Fubon Art Foundation may be a little different from the rest of the museums on this list. Its aim is to promote art education and support art-based events. To incorporate art into one's lifestyle, it is not necessary to visit a museum or a gallery. Hence, "Very Fun Park" is established where people can experience art from the streets and alleyways in the city.Don't be sad if your trip to Taiwan is canceled, and you can't witness these awesome artworks. Now, you can navigate through the online galleries and view the various installations from different contemporary visual artists. The colorful and unique installations are interesting to look at; it makes you want to witness them in real life too!Website
If you think that you can't experience new things without leaving your house, then you are wrong! This list of virtual museum tours will occupy your time, give you some inspiration, relax your mind, and perhaps, allow you to learn something new. If these museums piqued your interest, then you can include them in your itinerary the next time you are traveling!
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How to celebrate Eid al-Fitr this year? Here are 12 things to note for this year's Eid al-Fitr celebration in 2020.
1. When is Eid al-Fitr 2020
Image Credit: Rumman Amin on Unsplash
Eid al Fitr is the 1st day of the month of Shawwal. The 10th month in the Islamic calendar (the month after Ramadan). Some regions will depend on the sighting of the moon to decide on the 1st of Shawwal and some will decide on it based on calculations.
For most regions, Eid al Fitr 2020 will be on the 24th of May. Some regions may celebrate Eid on the 23rd May or the 25th May. A very small number may even celebrate on the 26th May. It is best to check with your closest Mosque to find out about the day of Eid.
2. Pay Sadaqa-ul-Fitr
Image Credit: Bayu on Unsplash
Ensure you have paid Sadaqat-ul-fitr for you and all your dependents before the Eid Salat. Check with the local Mosque on the amount to be paid per person.
Amounts recommended in some countries:
Singapore: S$5.10 (normal rate) and S$7.50 (higher rate) per head
Malaysia: RM7
UK: £4 per person.
Narrated Nafi (RA):
“Ibn `Umar (RA) said, "The Prophet (SAW) made incumbent on every male or female, free man or slave, the payment of one Sa' of dates or barley as Sadaqat-ul-Fitr (or said Sadaqa-Ramadan)."
The people then substituted half Sa' of wheat for that. Ibn `Umar (RA) used to give dates (as Sadaqat-ul-Fitr). Once there was scarcity of dates in Medina and Ibn `Umar gave barley.
'And Ibn `Umar used to give Sadaqat-ul- Fitr for every young and old person. He even used to give on behalf of my children. Ibn `Umar used to give Sadaqat-ul-Fitr to those who had been officially appointed for its collection. People used to give Sadaqat-ul-Fitr (even) a day or two before the Eid.
(Sahih-al-Bukhari)
Narrated Ibn `Umar (RA):
The Prophet (SAW) ordered the people to pay Zakat-ul-Fitr before going to the Eid prayer.
(Sahih-al-Bukhari)
It was narrated that Ibn Abbas (RA) said:
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) enjoined Zakatul-Fitr as a purification for the fasting person from idle talk and obscenities, and to feed the poor. Whoever pays it before the (Eid) prayer, it is an accepted Zakah, and whoever pays it after the prayer, it is (ordinary) charity.
(Sunan Ibn Majah)
3. Reciting the Takbir
Image Credit: Falaq Lazuardi on Unsplash
Recite Takbir individually and with family from Maghrib time of the day before Eid day until before the Eid Salat.
اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ
لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَاَللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ
اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلَّهِ الْحَمْد
4. Praying Voluntary Prayers during the Night of Eid
Image Credit: Masjid Pogung Dalangan on Unsplash
Narrated from Abu Umamah (RA):
That the Prophet (SAW) said: “Whoever spends the nights of the two ‘Eid in praying voluntary prayers, seeking reward from Allah, his heart will not die on the Day when hearts will die.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah)
5. Wake up for Fajr
Image Credit: Arun Anoop on Unsplash
حَافِظُوا عَلَى الصَّلَوَاتِ وَالصَّلَاةِ الْوُسْطَىٰ وَقُومُوا لِلَّهِ قَانِتِينَ
Guard your Salah (obligatory regular prayers) especially the middle Salah and stand up with true devotion to Allah
(Qur’an 2:238)
Abu Hurairah (RA) reported:
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, "The first of man's deeds for which he will be called to account on the Day of Resurrection will be Salat. If it is found to be perfect, he will be safe and successful; but if it is incomplete, he will be unfortunate and a loser. If any shortcoming is found in the obligatory Salat, the Glorious and Exalted Rubb will command to see whether His slave has offered any voluntary Salat so that the obligatory Salat may be made up by it. Then the rest of his actions will be treated in the same manner."
(Sunan-at-Tirmidhi)
6. Take a Shower
7. Wear your Best Garments
8. Put on Perfume
It was narrated that Ibn ‘Abbas (RA) said:
“The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: ‘This day is an ‘Eid (festival) which Allah has ordained for the Muslims. Whoever comes to Friday (prayer), let him take a bath and if he has perfume then let him put some on. And upon you (I urge to use) is the tooth stick.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah)
9. Eat Something before the Eid Prayers
Photo by Mona Mok on Unsplash
Narrated Anas bin Malik:
Allah's Messenger (SAW) never proceeded (for the prayer) on the Day of `Id-ul-Fitr unless he had eaten some dates. Anas also narrated: The Prophet (SAW) used to eat odd number of dates.
(Sahih-al-Bukhari)
10. Performing Eid Prayer at Home
Image Credit: Jeremy Yap on Unsplash
This year is different and most of us will be performing Eid prayers at home with family.
How to perform Eid prayer at home:
Appoint someone in the family to lead the prayers
It was narrated from Abu Sa'eed (RA) that the Prophet (SAW) said:
"when there are three people let one of them lead the prayer, and the one who is most entitled to lead the prayer is the one who has most knowledge of the Qur'an."
(Sunan an-Nasa'i)
There is no Azan or Iqamah for Eid prayers
Two Rakats prayer with a certain number of additional Takbeers in each Rakat
The exact number of additional Takbeer may slightly vary depending on the Madhab you follow.
This is the guidelines from Singapore Mufti's office:
Recommended Surahs to be recited
It was narrated from An-Nu'man bin Bashir that:
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) used to recite on the two 'Eids and on Friday: ‏سَبِّحِ اسْمَ رَبِّكَ الأَعْلَى (Glorify the Name of Your Lord, the Most High) and هَلْ أَتَاكَ حَدِيثُ الْغَاشِيَةِ‏ (Has there come to you the narration of The Overwhelming?) Sometimes the two ('Eid and Jumu'ah) occurred on the same day, and he would recite them (these two Surahs).
(Sunan an-Nasa'i)
Khutbah after prayers is not compulsory as in Friday prayers.
Many Mosques are live streaming Khutbah that you could listen to.
It was narrated that Abdullah bin Sa’ib (RA)said:
“I attended the ‘Eid prayer with the Messenger of Allah (SAW). He led us in offering the ‘Eid prayer, then he said: ‘I have finished the prayer. Whoever wants to sit (and listen to) the sermon, then let him sit, and whoever wants to leave, then let him leave.’”
(Sunan-Ibn Majah)
11. Giving Gifts
Image Credit: Kari Shea on Unsplash
Abu Hurayra (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said, "Give gifts and you will love one another."
(Al-Adab Al-Mufrad)
Aishah (RA) narrated:
"The Prophet (SAW) would accept gifts and he would give something in return."
(Jami` at-Tirmidhi)
12. Call Up your Parents, Sibling, Uncles, Aunts….
Image Credit: Taylor Grote on Unsplash
Narrated Abu Huraira (RA):
The Prophet (SAW) said, "Allah created His creation, and when He had finished it, the womb, got up and caught hold of Allah whereupon Allah said, "What is the matter?' On that, it said, 'I seek refuge with you from those who sever the ties of Kith and kin.' On that Allah said, 'Will you be satisfied if I bestow My favors on him who keeps your ties, and withhold My favors from him who severs your ties?' On that it said, 'Yes, O my Lord!' Then Allah said, 'That is for you.' " Abu Huraira (RA) added: If you wish, you can recite: "Would you then if you were given the authority. do mischief in the land and sever your ties of kinship. (47. 22)
(Sahih-al-Bukhari)
Narrated Anas bin Malik (RA):
I heard Allah's Messenger (SAW) saying, "whoever desires an expansion in his sustenance and age, should keep good relations with his Kith and kin."
(Sahih-al-Bukhari)
May Allah accept your fasting and all the good deeds....

This year's Eid al-Fitr celebration would definitely be one of a kind as we may miss out on doing things that we usually do during the previous celebration due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Many governments have encouraged their people to remain at home and avoid large gatherings to prevent further spread of the virus. This means that we may no longer be able to go house visiting like we usually do previously.
Nonetheless, that doesn't mean we can't celebrate Eid al-Fitr. We could still enjoy this festive celebration by cooking or buying delicious food and dishes for Hari Raya Eid al-Fitr. There are still online grocery stores that provide ingredients we need to prepare these Hari Raya dishes and food. These online grocery stores deliver right to your doorstep so you don't have to step out of your house! There are also food delivery services that you could use to get your ready-to-eat Hari Raya food and dishes delivered to your house.
Time to get into the festive mood! Here are 10 best traditional food and dishes across Southeast Asia countries you shouldn't miss out this Eid al-Fitr!
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1. Chicken Opor
Image Credit: Opor Ayam by Julie Baskara on cookpad
This is one of the most famous menus in Indonesia that everyone looks out for during Eid. For those of you who are not familiar with this menu, this dish can be considered as a bowl of yellow chicken curry.
This traditional dish contains chicken cooked with coconut milk and served with Ketupat (rice cake in a woven palm leaf pouch). You can also enjoy a bowl of Chicken Opor with fried shallots as a garnish.
Chicken Opor is dominated with savory taste, yet you can add some extra chilly or sambal to have a spicier taste. Sambal Goreng is the best addition to your Chicken Opor! These are some ingredients you need to have to cook Chicken Opor, chicken cut into small pieces (of course you need this one!), lemongrass, bay leaves, coconut milk, shallots, garlic, galangal, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, salt, and sugar. Try making your own Chicken Opor this Eid!
2. Sambal Goreng
Image Credit: Sambal Goreng by Cooking with Subhan
This is known as “fried sambal” in English. Commonly in Indonesia, Sambal Goreng is the best companion for Chicken Opor, but we can also have Sambal Goreng as a separate menu eaten alongside warm rice or lontong.
There are various fillings in Sambal Goreng, for example, potato, chicken liver and gizzard, tofu, and even tempe. It depends on your preference. Basically, you just need to stir-fry all of the ingredients in a single frying pan. Make sure that you have these ingredients in your kitchen to cook your sambal goreng. Other ingredients include red chilies, shallots, garlic, onion, shrimp paste, lime leaves, and tamarind. For the fillings, you can choose whatever you want as I have mentioned above.
You can practically find sambal goreng in many households that you visit during Hari Raya as this dish is quite popular and easy to prepare. Since there may not be visiting this year, why not whip out your own sambal goreng? You can eat it alongside some rice, lontong or chicken opor!
3. Soto
Image Credit: Soto Ayam by recipepocket
Soto is an easy meal to prepare which only takes three steps. Yet, it is a delicious meal with a savory gravy soup, suitable for Eid. The main ingredient is not so hard to look for; you can either choose chicken or beef as the primary filling. For the additional filling, you can include boiled eggs, red tomatoes, boiled potatoes, fried chips, and fried shallots.
Essentially, if you have red onions, garlic, coriander, cumin pepper, ginger, turmeric, coconut milk, salt and sugar in your kitchen, you are ready to whip up your own soto at home!
Soto is a dish that is loved by many especially kids as it does not taste spicy. However, if want to add a little bit of spiciness, you could always include some chili in the gravy. Anyway, don’t forget to put extra lime in your bowl of Soto! You shouldn't miss out on this dish for Eid al-Fitr this year as it is convenient to make!
4. Rendang
Image Credit: Beef Rendang by Rasa Malaysia
Now, this is the ultimate menu for Eid-al Fitr! No one can resist the best dish in the world. This dish which originated from West Sumatra province, Indonesia, was crowned as the best food in CNN’s World’s 50 Best Foods in 2011. Perhaps the appearance may not look that appetizing; brown-colored meat with gravy. But once you give this dish a try, it is totally unstoppable. The taste is just a little bit spicy but it may not be as spicy as Sambal Goreng.
There are also many different types and variations of the rendang dish all over Southeast Asia, so all you have to do is to pick your favorite kind of rendang.
This meal is served during special occasions to honor guests and also during festive seasons like Eid al-Fitr. To prepare this dish, you need to cook the main ingredients like beef, lamb or mutton for a few hours until all of the seasonings are completely absorbed by the meat. Cook with coconut milk, chilly, ginger, galangal, turmeric, lemongrass, garlic, and shallot.
Rendang can be served with warm rice, lontong or ketupat and lemang. This dish is sure to bring out the festive vibe this year! You could either prepare it yourself or order online, to be delivered directly to your home.
5. Meat Ball
Image Credit: Bakso Recipe (Indonesian Meatballs Soup) by Arie's Kitchen
Almost everyone loves Meat Ball! (Me too!) For those of you who feel full after eating all those heavy dishes, let's take a look at this light dish. Meatballs is similar in texture to the Chinese beef balls or fishballs. For Eid, meatballs with beef broth is the best snack of the day. To make this meal complete, simply serve your meat balls with beef broth with some noodles added to it. Again, for those who are a fan of spicy food, don’t forget to add chili in the beef broth.
6. Ketupat
Image Credit: Recipe Ketupat on foodpanda
Ketupat is really famous in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. It is a diamond-shaped rice cake. The rice is cooked, compressed, and wrapped in woven coconut leaves. Ketupat is a perfect substitute for rice when you are eating the Chicken Opor, Sambal Goreng, Satay or rendang. Preparing ketupat may take some time given that you would have to weave the ketupat before filling it with rice. However, if you have the time, you could prepare the ketupat together with your family. If not, you could easily get it online! Make sure to place your orders early!
Eid al-Fitr celebration is definitely not complete if we don’t eat Ketupat!
7. Satay
Image Credit: Dedit Yasa from Pixabay
Satay or Sate is a typical Southeast Asian meal that is mouthwatering, famous in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. There are several types of Satay like chicken Satay or mutton Satay. The meat are cut into smaller pieces on a stick and grilled with charcoal. Chicken Satay is often served with peanut sauce and sweet soy ketchup while mutton satay is usually served with sweet soy ketchup only.
Another type of Satay found in Indonesia is Padangnese Satay which uses beef and a salty-spicy gooey sauce.
As mentioned earlier, Satay is commonly eaten with peanut sauce. You could also serve Satay with some ketupat or Lontong. This would make the taste better! The best time to have satay is during the evening or at night. Eid al-Fitr night celebration would be merrier with satay and ketupat!
8. Lontong
Image Credit: Lontong Sayur Lodeh by Chef Rossham Rusli on kuali
Another substitute for rice and ketupat is lontong. Lontong is primarily made from rice. There are different ways that lontong is prepared. One way is that the rice is cooked, compressed, and rolled inside the banana leaf. For a more modern and quicker way of preparing lontong, you can find instant ones where the rice is filled in clear plastic and all you have to do is steam it. You can have lontong with sayur lodeh which is quite commonly served during Hari Raya in Singapore and Malaysia.
However, lontong is also suitable to be eaten with many Eid-al Fitr dishes like Chicken Opor, Satay, or Sambal Goreng. This dish can be found easily in Indonesia, Singapore, or Malaysia.
9. Candied Fruits
Image Credit: Michal Jarmoluk from Pixabay
We have discussed heavy and light dishes, so you must be quite full just from reading it right? Now let’s take a break and have some dessert. The first recommendation is candied fruits which are usually kept in transparent jars and served on the table.
It is very eye-catching as it is made from colorful fruits like mango, papaya, guava, snake fruit, kiwi, pumpkin, and many more. These fruits are being fermented so it can be kept for a long time in jars. It has a sweet taste to it which is no wonder why kids usually love eating them.
It is to be noted that candied fruits shouldn't be consumed too much due to its sweet taste. The solution to this is that the candied fruits can be served in smaller jars so that it wouldn't be over-consumed.
10. Dodol
Image Credit: Dodol on asian inspirations
Another sweet treat which very common in Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, Philippines, and Thailand is Dodol. Dodol is a sugar-palm based dessert that is caramelized for hours in a big fireplace or oven.
Dodol has a chewy texture and is very dense. It also sometimes cut into a diamond, strips, or into squares. Nowadays, there are a wide variety of flavors such as vanilla, coconut, apple, durian, or mango. This sweet dessert can be found easily in every souvenir shop in some Southeast Asian countries, and it is a must-have dessert during Eid al-Fitr celebration
Once again, have it in moderation! If you have time, you could prepare the Dodol from scratch. However, you could also easily get it from online stores or the market.
We will welcome Hari Raya Eid al-Fitr in a couple of days. Several countries in Southeast Asia may still have regulations in place to prevent large gatherings or house visiting due to the virus. This may be disappointing for some of us as we try to find new means of celebrating Eid al-Fitr this year. However, we could still get into the festive mood by preparing or buying some of the dishes and food listed above. With that, we hope that all our readers stay safe and spend the remaining days of Ramadan meaningfully with your loved ones!
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